Top 20 Most Famous Chinese Actors (+ Pics, Profiles and Movie List)

The Most Famous Chinese Actors (+ 10 More From Hong Kong)

Just getting into Chinese pop culture and want to know who these famous Chinese actors are you’re starting to see everywhere?

Want to be able to chat with your Chinese friends about famous Chinese actors?

Need to know who that handsome Chinese actor was in the Chinese movie you just watched?! 

(Or want to find out what other movies he’s in so you can swoon over him some more? We get you.)

Well, look no further. 

We’ve collected a bunch of information based on our own knowledge, our own favourite Chinese actors, the most influential over the past couple of decades, as well as the most popular Chinese actors in recent years according to statistics from Weibo, Baidu, and WeChat… all to put together the ultimate list of famous Chinese actors and influential Chinese actors that you need to know about. 

Not only have we collected the names of these famous Chinese actors, but we’ve also listed their profiles as well as the films of these famous Chinese actors – so you can watch them yourselves!

We’ll also help you answer that age old question “damn, I know I know him from somewhere…”

If you watch Chinese films, you are bound to recognise at least some of these names/pictures! 

And if you don’t want Chinese films… then now is your chance.

Much like Hollywood films, the best Chinese movies usually include the best Chinese actors, or indeed the most famous Chinese actors.

So by that logic… all these Chinese movies listed here should be pretty good! 

So if you’re interested in watching Chinese movies, this is a perfect place to start.

If you have any more suggestions for this list or your favourite Chinese actor is not listed in this famous Chinese actor list, let us know in the comments below together with your favourite film they feature in!

We might be able to add him for you.

NOTE || The following is a list of famous Chinese actors from mainland China. But arguably the most famous Chinese actors are from Hong Kong. Well, some of the most recognisable, at least! 

So we’ve added a whole section at the bottom of this blog for famous Chinese actors from Hong Kong.

If that’s what you’re looking for (think Jacky Chan and Bruce Lee), then skip right to the bottom!

The below famous Chinese actors are in no particular order.

(Apart from maybe the author’s preference…) 😎

Famous Chinese Actors || Huang Bo 黄渤

Famous Chinese Actors || Wang Baoqiang 王宝强

Famous Chinese Actors || Zheng Kai 郑恺

Famous Chinese Actors || Xu Zheng 徐峥

Famous Chinese Actors || Ge You 葛优

Famous Chinese Actors || Jiang Wen 姜文

Famous Chinese Actors || Liu Haoran 刘昊然

Famous Chinese Actors || Xu Kai 许凯

Famous Chinese Actors || Wang Yibo 王一博

Famous Chinese Actors || Xiao Zhan 肖战

Famous Chinese Actors || Li Xian 李现

Famous Chinese Actors || Yang Yang 杨洋

Famous Chinese Actors || Li Lianjie 李连杰

Famous Chinese Actors || Huang Xiaoming 黄晓明

Famous Chinese Actors || Chen Kun 陈坤

Famous Chinese Actors || Wu Jing 吴京

Famous Chinese Actors || Ren Jialun 任嘉伦

Famous Chinese Actors || Li Xian 刘思慕

Famous Chinese Actors || Zhang Han 张翰

Famous Chinese Actors || Cheng Yi 成毅

BONUS || 10 Most Famous Chinese Actors (Hong Kong)

Famous Chinese Actors || Huang Bo 黄渤

Let’s start with some of the most famous Chinese actors!

Huang Bo is currently vice-chairman of the China Film Association and ranked 2nd on Forbes’ China celebrity top 100 list in 2019.

In other words, this actor, director, and singer, is a big name in the Chinese film industry.

Whenever I see a film with Huang Bo in it, I know it’s going to be a good one that is sure to either make me laugh or warm my heart.

His smile is enough to reign you in and tell you it’s going to be a good film.

He’s mostly known as a comedy actor, so you can expect to laugh and enjoy his often light-hearted films – although, he does have some more dramatic roles. 

He was born in Qingdao…

Yes, that very same place the famous Qingdao beer came from in Shandong Province.

Having always had a love for the arts and entertainment, he was already making people laugh in middle school.

He then took on various roles and jobs as a bar singer and dance instructor. 

2000

He started his acting career in 2000 when he appeared in a couple of films, but he was given few parts and minor roles. 

2006

It wasn’t until 2006 that his career really took off. 

He starred in a low-budget film called Crazy Stone (疯狂的石头 Fēngkuáng de Shítou).

This was an overnight hit all across China and brought him immediate fame.

In this film, he plays the role of a bumbling thief – and in his consequential films, you’ll also see him play such comedic roles.

What I love about him is he’s an amazing actor, and his smile has that infectious quality.

You can tell he has a good heart as a person and incredible skills as an actor.

Even though he’s not your typical smooth-faced youthful handsome Chinese actor, Huang Bo is one of the most famous actors in China for a reason. 

2010 Onwards 

Since around 2010, Huang Bo has really made a name for himself in the Chinese actor community, starring in some really big productions.

Some of these include…

Huang Bo Famous Chinese Movies

• My People, My Country 我和我的祖国 (2019)
• Crazy Alien 疯狂的外星人 (2019)
• Battle of Memories 记忆大师 (2017)

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Famous Chinese Actors || Wang Baoqiang 王宝强

Second up on this famous Chinese actors list is another comedic actor.

Similar to Huang Bo, any film that Wang Baoqiang is in I actively seek out – especially when needing a pick-me-up or looking for something funny and heartwarming.

Wang Baoqiang is one of those actors you *know* is suited for a certain role. And for Wang Baoqiang, he’s definitely not playing the heart-throb or muscular hero.

He’s probably going to be playing the village idiot or clumsy fool. You know, the one that everyone loves. 

I first saw him in a hilarious and really foreigner-friendly Detective Chinatown 唐人街探案.

It was one of the first Chinese movies I ever watched and I’d really recommend it.

I found it pretty accessible as a foreigner just starting with Chinese movies and I’d recommend you to watch it too! 

1990

It’s made even better once you know his backstory. He was born to a poor family in a small village.

The story goes, that he was inspired into learning martial arts when he viewed Shaolin Temple at the age of 8.

He wanted to be like actors Jet Li and Jacky Chan (more on those in the bonus section below). Despite his family urging him against it, he then started gruelling training at the Shaolin Temple. 

He had high hopes to become a movie star and thought learning martial arts at the Shaolin temple was a surefire way to get him there. 

1992

By the age of 14, he had completed his 6 years of training at the Shaolin Temple. But… still hadn’t gotten anywhere in terms of his movie career.

So, instead of giving up, he packed up everything and went to Beijing, with just 500 RMB. He’d wait in front of the Beijing Film Studios in hope of getting a part as an extra and worked for only 25RMB per day. 

Of course, this money ran out and he then was forced to work on a construction site. 

He was originally rejected from the acting industry due to his height, and didn’t return to his hometown for over two years, unable to even afford the train ticket.

2002 

Eventually, at the age of 20, Wang Baoqiang was spotted by a director. 

2003

He was given a role in a small independent film (Blind Shaft盲井) where he actually won the award for Best New Performer award at the Taiwan Golden Horse Film Festival and a Best Actor award in both France and Thailand.

Although, he still hadn’t caught his big break…

2004

2004 was a life-changing year for Wang Baoqiang as he starred in a movie A World Without Thieves 天下无贼 (a really good movie, more on that later).

This Chinese movie isn’t just any movie; it’s a new year’s movie and had some big stars like Li Bingbing and Ge You (more on him shortly).

Basically, he starred alongside some big names. And with this, brought him fame too. 

Any film with Wang Baoqiang is going to have a bit of slapstick comedy in it, so as long as you don’t mind that (or can look past some of the super cringy bits) then you’ll love this film, and you’ll most likely enjoy a lot of Wang Baoqiang’s movies.

Wang Baoqiang Famous Chinese Movies 

• Detective Chinatown (2012) / 2 (2018) / 3 (2021) 唐人街探案2/3
• A World Without Thieves 天下无贼 (2004)
• Mr. Tree, Hello! 树先生 (2011)

Famous Chinese Actors || Zheng Kai 郑恺

Maybe not one of your most iconic famous Chinese actors, but I’ve enjoyed a lot of films and dramas Zheng Kai has been in.

Plus, he was still ranked 68th in Forbes’ list of top 100 Chinese celebrities.

I don’t know if it’s just me or if it’s in the movies I’ve seen him in only, but he seems to often play the actor of a young man dealing with some angst or life issues and trying to resolve them.

At least, you certainly see this in the films listed below.

Zheng Kai graduated from Shanghai’s Academy Theater in 2008.

He’s best known for presenting the variety show Keep Running, which he has been a part of since 2014 and still is today.

Despite this, he also has acted in a variety of successful Chinese movies.

In fact, Ex-Files 前任攻略 remains one of my favourite Chinese movies. Not the best piece of production and film in the world, but still a really great film.

So great they made three parts, actually!

I loved it for its easy watching and chick-flick, comedic appeal. And the third part is the best, in my opinion! This was made in 2017 under the name Ex-Files: Goodbye Ex 前任3：再见前任.

More popular with younger audiences, and only young himself, Zheng Kai remains one of the top Chinese actors and TV personalities. So that’s why Zheng Kai gets a mention here. 

Zheng Kai Famous Chinese Movies

• My Lucky Star 非常幸运
• Ex-Files 前任攻略
• Never Stop 超越

Famous Chinese Actors || Xu Zheng 徐峥

Xu Zheng may very well be my all-time favourite Chinese actor.

He stars in so many fabulous films. If you’re looking for a place to start in the Chinese movie helm, then Xu Zheng’s films are a great place to start from.

And it’s not just me who thinks he’s great – Forbes ranked him 2nd in their 2020 top 100 China Celebrities list.

He directed, co-wrote, co-produced and starred in Lost in Thailand, as well as Lost in Hong Kong.

He also co-produced and starred in Dying to Survive.

Dying to Survive 我不是药神 and Fake Fiction 摩登年代 are two of my favourite of his films, but he stars in so many more.

He wasn’t always a director. Indeed, his road to becoming a director was a bit tricky.

Although he had graduated from the Shanghai Theatre Academy in 1994 and had already played starring roles, no one took him seriously as a producer at first.

Finally, he found the investment needed and he went on to produce many films!

Xu Zheng Famous Chinese Movies

• Dying to Survive 我不是药神 (2018)
• Fake Fiction 摩登年代 (2013)
• Lost in Thailand 人再囧途之泰囧 (2012)

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Famous Chinese Actors || Ge You 葛优

A household name in Chinese cinema, if you’ve watched any Chinese movies, or are interested in Chinese cinema at all, you’re more than likely to have come across the name Ge You. 

He’s one of the most famous Chinese actors, and for good reason.

He is very good. With his bald head and the fact he is… not as young as the others, he may not be considered one of the most handsome Chinese actors out there – but he is certainly considered to be one of the best.

He was the first Asian actor to win Cannes’ best performance honours, and also won Best Actor in China’s most prestigious film awards, the Golden Rooster Awards. 

FUN FACT || Whilst his roles can be serious, usually he plays satirical roles and comedies. You will otherwise find him playing various military roles.

He was born to a family already in the film business, with his father being from a generation of actors and his mother working as a script editor in the Beijing Film Studios, he has played a variety of characters over his career.

However, growing up in the Cultural Revolution meant that when he was younger he was sent to work in a pig farm in rural China.

This may have been a blessing in disguise, though, as it was his skit ‘Feeding Pigs 喂猪’ that got him into the Art Troupe of China’s National Federation of Trade Unions. 

He then spent a few years as a drama actor, before getting his big break in 1991.

1991

In 1991, Ge You gained recognition for the first time after starring in the drama The Spring Festival 过年.

In 1994, he starred in the film To Live 活着 where he won the Best Actor Award at Cannes. 

He carried on to make several top Chinese hit films, racking up over 60 films to date. 

Ge You Best Chinese Movies

• If You Are the One 非诚勿扰 (2008）
• To Live 活着 (1993)
• My People, My Homeland 我和我的故乡(2020)

Famous Chinese Actors || Jiang Wen 姜文

Arguably the most famous Chinese actor, Jiang Wen is a household name and widely regarded as one of the best Chinese actors of all time. 

He is also a successful director and famous both domestically and internationally.

For those interested in Chinese film, he’s sometimes grouped with the sixth generation of Chinese directors (directors in the 1990s in China).

Originally born in Tangshan to a military family, they relocated to Beijing when he was just 10 years old.

1980

In 1980 Jiang went on to enter the Central Academy of Drama (China’s most famous acting school) and graduated in 1984. 

1986

It was only shortly after this in 1986 that he had his big breakthrough.

He played the role of the last emperor of China in the film The Last Empress 末代皇后. 

His second film, also in 1986, was called Hibiscus Town 芙蓉镇.

It brought him real fame as he starred alongside a famous Chinese actress Liu Xiaoqing and went on to win the Best Actor award at the Hundred Flowers Awards. 

1987

But it wasn’t until 1987 that his career really took off.

He starred in famous director Zhang Yimou’s Red Sorghum 红高粱 film.

This led to his international fame and brought him the Golden Bear Award at the Berlin International Film Festival in 1988. 

2000s

He has since starred in multiple big hits domestically, as well as playing roles internationally.

He starred in the Star Wars anthology film Rogue One (2016) and has also won several awards in Taiwan at the Golden Horse Awards. 

Not only is he a famous actor, but he is also a successful screenwriter and director. 

Listed below are some of his most famous and critically acclaimed films – although it should be noted, there are many many more! 

Jiang Wen Famous Chinese Movies

• Red Sorghum 红高粱 (1987)
• Let the Bullets Fly 让子弹飞 (2010)
• The Founding of a Republic 建国大业 (2009)

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Famous Chinese Actors || Liu Haoran 刘昊然

Liu Haoran is the first on this list that really hits the newer famous Chinese actors and also one of the more typical younger, handsome famous Chinese actor category.

He’s your typical innocent, sweet-faced boy next door.

He’s young, and fresh, and I’m sure has many years ahead of him in the world of Chinese acting. 

I first saw him when he starred in the aforementioned Detective Chinatown film.

To be honest, I don’t think the film does justice to his acting skills.

He seems a little stiff in this performance but I think that just has to do with the film itself.

It’s not the best piece of cinema, although it is amusing and still on the list of some of my favourite Chinese films. 

2008

At the age of 11, he was admitted into the middle school of the Beijing Dance Academy where he lived alone at boarding school. 

2014

At age 16, he was discovered by a director who helped him rise to fame in his debut film Beijing Love Story 北京爱情故事 for which he won his first nomination at the Beijing College Student Film Festival. 

2015 

In 2015, he then starred alongside Wang Baoqiang in Detective Chinatown which earned him immediate success.

There is also a sequel to this film in 2018 which was also a massive hit (although I prefer the first one). 

FUN FACT || He is the youngest-ever nominee of the Hundred Flowers Awards (basically equivalent to the Golden Globes in China), and has many many other successful movies already under his belt. All below the age of 30! 

2016

The release of the drama With You 最好的我们. This was actually the first time I saw Liu Haoran acting.

It’s one of the first Chinese dramas I ever watched, and was a great introduction to the Chinese high school student and Chinese high school life.

2020

In 2020, Forbes ranked him in 18th place on their Top 100 Chinese Celebrities list.

2021

DID YOU KNOW || Liu Haoran became the youngest actor to gross over $2 billion at the Chinese box office.

2022

Liu starred in his third Chinese New Year Film Only Fools Rush In 四海.

This is a comedy-drama but wasn’t received as well as his previous films.

Liu Haoran Famous Chinese Movies

• Legend of the Demon Cat 妖猫传
• Coffee Or Tea? 一点就到家
• Detective Chinatown 唐人街探案

Famous Chinese Actors || Xu Kai 许凯

Xu Kai is a young actor/model well known for his various roles in dramas, as well as in films.

As a model originally, he’s certainly one of the more stereotypically handsome famous Chinese actors in this list!

In fact in 2015 Xu kai won a modelling competition.

2016

He then signed a contract with Huanyu Film where he was cast in his first television series, Zhaoge. 

This was his official debut in the entertainment industry.

2018

In 2018, he starred in two dramas that made his name; Untouchable Lovers 凤囚凰, and Story of Yanxi Palace 延禧攻略. 

2019

It wasn’t until 2019 that he had his big debut film in the romance film Autumn fairy Tale 蓝色生死恋.

This is to date his only film.

But we’d love to see some more coming over the next few years! 

He continues to star in various dramas. 

Xu Kai Famous Chinese Movies/Dramas

• Untouchable Lovers 凤囚凰 (2018)
• Story of Yanxi Palace 延禧攻略 (2018)
• Autumn Fairy Tale 蓝色生死恋 (2019)

Famous Chinese Actors || Wang Yibo 王一博

Wang Yibo is a new upcoming famous actor in China.

As one of the most handsome actors in recent years, his looks and acting skills have also brought him great fame.

He has even been awarded “Hot Figure of the Year” awards twice in a row! 

Not only does he have decent acting skills, but he’s also a singer, rapper, dancer and… professional road motorbike racer?!

Despite him being fairly young and a fairly recent celebrity, Forbes listed him as number 2 in their 100 Top Chinese Celebrities list in 2021.

Let’s take a look at Wang Yibo’s rise to become one of the most famous Chinese actors. 

2011

He competed in an international dance competition where he placed 16th and was then signed by Yuehua Entertainment.

2014

You just need to look at him (and his good looks) to know that he used to be in a boyband and… sure enough, it was in 2014 that he first rose to fame in his boyband Uniq and the song “Falling in Love”.

This is a South Korean-Chinese boyband, and he also speaks Korean fluently! 

Previously to this, he moved to South Korean to train in the Hanlim Multi Art School.

2016

He was then cast in A Chinese Odyssey Part 3 and famously Love Actually (nope, not the film you’re thinking about but a comedy-drama series!)

In 2016, Wang Yibo worked as a TV host on the variety show Day Day Up.

2017

He gets his first lead role in the Private Shushan Gakuen drama, and then went on to play other starring roles whilst also producing music at the same time.

2018 

2018 was a big year for Wang Yibo as his solo debut in both dance and song really took off and he gained recognition throughout the country and also on a global scale.

He participated as a dance mentor team captain on the show Street Dance of China 3.

He performed a solo dance piece at the Hunan Spring Festival by Hunan Television (a big television channel in China).

And on top of it all, he also released a single and starred in other dramas including the hugely popular “The Untamed”.

His first ever single called “No Sense” (which he wrote himself) sold 6 million digital copies in under 20 minutes of release.

That is a lot of listeners.

He then went on to perform it for the first time in 2020 at the Hunan Television New Year’s Eve Concert.

2021

Things didn’t stop there for Wang Yibo.

In fact, 2020-2021 might be some of Wang Yibo’s busiest years as he rises even further to fame.

He was confirmed as one of the four captains in the dance competition Street Dance of China Season 3 (这!就是街舞3) show, starred in a drama, released his fourth single, made an appearance on the CCTV New Year’s Eve Gala (the most prestigious in China) and then also acted in a movie!

He was then awarded All-Around Artist of the Year at Douyin Night 2021.

Hats off Wang Yibo!

Wang Yibo Famous Chinese Movies/Dramas

• Love Actually 人间至味是清欢 (2017)
• The Untamed 陈情令 (2019)
• A Chinese Odyssey Part 3 大话西游3

Famous Chinese Actors || Xiao Zhan 肖战

Voted as one of the most handsome faces in Asia – and also THE WORLD – you will see 肖战’s face pop up often both domestically and internationally on various billboards and in various adverts. 

Not only one of China’s most famous actors, he’s also a famous singer, too!

He started out by appearing in Chinese boybands, he then became a soloist.

And a very successful one at that, which we will see below.

In fact, he has been so successful in recent years that we could write a whole blog on him. But, for now, we’ll just summarise it.

His fame has been recent, so let’s take a look at the past few year’s of Xiao Zhen’s rise to fame. 

Pre-2016

Always a lover of music and the arts, he played the violin as a child and attended Chongqing’s Modern International Art Design Academy.

After graduating, he went on to open a photography studio with his friends in 2012. In 2014, he was working as a photographer and graphic designer.

But then everything changed for Xiao Zhan…

2016

He competed in a competition of idols in 2015 and then went on to do some smaller performances.

In 2016, he was part of a 9-member boy band called X Nine, where he was the main vocalist.

He then had his first leading star role in the online fantasy drama Super Star Academy.

2018 – 2020 

He continued his success by appearing in various other online streaming series including Oh! My Emperor (2018) and The Wolf (2020).

He also starred in The Untamed which was also picked up by Netflix, he began to gain global recognition. 

Where did we see The Untamed before? Oh, that’s right. We just read about co-star Wang Yibo!

Actually, there was a bit of controversy surrounding this as a slash fan fiction novel went viral.

It has a bit of a racey storyline and contains two main characters called Wang Yibo and Xiao Zhan… We won’t go into too many details on it here but have a google search if you’re interested!

BONUS || You can find out more about The Untamed with our review here.

2020 Onwards

He released a single called Spot Light which set a Guinness World Record for the fastest-selling album within 24 hours of release. 

And since this, he’s been pretty endlessly producing films, dramas, and becoming brand ambassadors for some of the world’s biggest brands.

This includes massive names such as Pepsi, Audi, Yves Saint Laurent, just to name a few. You get the picture!

Most of these have incredible success stories of making massive sales in the short time after partnering with him.

He has also been voted top of various lists such as Most Handsome Faces in Asia, Most Handsome Man, Most Influential Faces etc.

The list can really carry of for a long time with Xiao Zhan. We’re excited to see what else is in store for this new and already uber-famous Chinese actor!

Xiao Zhan Famous Chinese Movies/Dramas

• Monster Hunt 2 捉妖记2 (2018)
• The Untamed 陈情令 (2019)
• The Oath of Love 余生，请多指教 (2022)

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Famous Chinese Actors || Li Xian 李现

Another rising star famous Chinese actor in this list, Li Xian made a name for himself in the first drama I happened to catch him in too – Go Go Squid.

It’s a pretty Chinese drama and to be honest, not the best I’ve seen.

Although it was the most streamed series in 2019, so what do I know!

I did almost binge-watch it in a week or so.

So it can’t have been that bad! It’s about an Esport team and of course, there is romance involved too.

Li Xian is the big star of this drama and he plays a cool guy not in touch with his feelings (although he obviously has them). It’s a great starting place to watch this famous Chinese actor as you follow his rise to fame.

2009

Back in 2009, an arguably life-changing event happened to Li Xian as he failed his college entrance exams to study STEM.

Something I’m sure we’re all grateful for, as he then went on to study acting at the Beijing Film Academy in 2010.

2014

He played a couple of minor roles in 2012 but 2014 saw his small-screen debut in the online series City of Fantasy.

Although his on-screen debut was back in 2014, it’s only in the last couple of years that fame has really come to Li Xian.

2017

In 2017 he played one of his first starring roles in Tientsin Mystic – a detective online drama.

For this, he won an Outstanding Actor award in 2017.

2019

2019 was Li Xian’s big year as he starred in Go Go Squid, China’s most successful series of 2019.

This brought his a bunch of awards and recognition that would then lead him to various other roles later on.

2020

He made an appearance at the CCTVs New Year Gala and also starred in two further films (both of which were then delayed due to the pandemic).

Li Xian Famous Chinese Films/Dramas

• Go Go Squid 亲爱的，热爱的 (2019)
• Soul Snatcher 赤狐书生 (2020)
• Love Song 1980 恋曲1980 (2020)

Famous Chinese Actors || Yang Yang 杨洋

Another household name in the list of handsome famous Chinese actors.

Yang Yang made his debut in 2010 and has since made several other influential dramas.

In 2016, he even became China’s first Olympic flame torch bearer at the Rio Olympics.

FUN FACT || He also became the first artist to be featured on a Chinese postage stamp.

So, he’s a pretty big name in mainland China.

Only at the age of 11, it was clear he had the potential to work in the arts, and his parents enrolled him on to the Department of Dance at People’s Liberation Army Arts College.

2007

In 2007, he was cast in The Dream of Red Mansions, which was then released in 2010 and was his big break.

From then on, he went on to do a few films and also dramas for the next few years all whilst contracted under Rosat Entertainment.

2015

In 2015, he broke his contract with Rosat Entertainment and starred in a couple of films that were big hits, as well as his role in The Lost Tomb helping him to gain even more fame as it became the most-watched web drama in 2015.

2016

Like most of our new and upcoming Chinese actors here, you know you’ve made it when you make your appearance in the CCTV New Year Gala.

This happened for Yang Yang in 2016.

2016 also saw him starring in the drama Love O2O which was a big hit not only domestically, but also internationally.

He wasn’t finished there, though.

He then starred in a film called I Belonged to You (a romance, believe it or not) and was then voted by CBN as one of the top 10 Chinese celebrities with the most commercial value.

2016 Onwards

2016 onwards, he’s gone on to make some serious films, starring alongside Jackie Chan and famous Chinese actress Dilraba Dilmurat (both listed below).

Some big names in showbiz in China, showing how much he’s solidified himself into the realms of the acting community in China!

Yang Yang Famous Chinese Movies/Dramas

• The Dream of Red Mansions 红楼梦 (2010)
• You Are My Glory 你是我的荣耀 (2021)
• Vanguard 急先锋 (2020)

Famous Chinese Actors || Li Lianjie 李连杰

DISCLAIMER || Firstly before we get into Jet Li, despite this being a list of *only* mainland Chinese famous actors, we have included Jet Li as he was born in Beijing in Mainland China – despite the fact that he then had US citizenship and then now Singaporean.

No politics involved here!

We just wanted to include him on this list as he is one of the absolute most famous Chinese actors out there!

He’s famous not just within China but truly across the globe where he’s had roles in Hollywood films, and has won three Best Actor awards as well as being nominated for many more.

We’re surprised if you haven’t heard of him, or maybe even seen some of his films already!

He’s not just an actor, but also a director, film producer, author, and martial artist.

Let’s delve into the life of Jet Li and how he became one of the most famous Chinese actors of all time, starring with actors such as Jason Statham and Morgan Freeman.

We have to miss out so much here because there is so much going on, but here’s a summary at least!

1982

Jet Li’s story goes all the way back to 1982. Originally, he was trained as a professional Wushu (martial arts) fighter.

He then gave this up at the age of 18 and thus began his acting career. Not surprisingly, he combines his acting talents with his martial arts skills.

And his debut film was Shaolin Temple (1989) – alongside Wang Baoqiang.

If you’re a lover of martial arts films, you’ll love Jet Li’s films.

He went on to star in a variety of martial arts films since his debut in the 1980s, including films from the famous director Zhang Yimo (Hero 英雄, 2002) and the 1990s series Once Upon a Time in China 武状元黄飞鸿.

1990/2000s

It was in the late 1990s and 2000s that Jet Li began to star in Hollywood and western movies, despite the fact he didn’t speak much English at first.

His first Western movie was Lethal Weapon 4, for which he then got the leading role in the next movie by the same producer Romeo Must Die.

He then goes on to produce a variety of films, both Chinese and Western, and mainly martial arts films.

He also turns down some pretty big parts during this time for various reasons, including for his wife’s pregnancy where he turned down the lead role in Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon.

2007

This year saw the release of Jet Li’s first Hollywood film, War, where he co-stars with Jason Statham.

As well as the release of The Forbidden Kingdom 功夫之王, starring himself and Jackie Chan.

2010

Jet Li continues to star in various action movies including the famous The Expendables with an all-star action cast.

He gave up his US citizenship he’d been granted as he was there filming a lot, and instead moved to Singaporean citizenship. He stated that it is for his children’s education that he picked Singapore.

To the end of the 2000s and 2010s, the number of films he appeared in started to decrease.

He became ill around this time but actually was also busy with charity work so he didn’t have as much time for filming.

Jet Li Famous Chinese/Western Movies

• Shaolin Temple 少林寺 (1982)
• Romeo Must Die (2000)
• Fist of Legend 精武英雄 (1994, Hong Kong)

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Famous Chinese Actors || Huang Xiaoming 黄晓明

This famous Chinese actor rose to fame from a young age, despite his initially shy and introverted personality.

Huang Xiaoming was spotted at the age of just 9 and was selected to star in a film.

Originally planning to become a scientist, it was a teacher that persuaded him to apply for the Beijing Film Academy, which he ended up doing.

He is a singer, actor, and model, and has played a number of important roles in various TV series and Chinese movies.

2000

Huang Xiaoming joined the Beijing Film Academy in 1996 and graduated in 2000.

He started to get noticed for his role in The Prince of Han Dynasty which was a very popular series at this time.

2009

After dabbling in a few other roles, Huang Xiaoming then saw his film debut in the films The Banquet, then the 2009 Hong Kong film The Sniper.

2013

In 2013 he stars in the comedy American Dreams in China 中国合伙人 and for this receives the Best Actor award at the 29th Golden Rooster Awards.

His other successes include the Cruel Romance 锦绣缘华丽冒险 2015 TV series, and the action film Xuanzang 大唐玄奘.

2022

His most recent film sees him act in the film Only Fools Rush In 四海 with Liu Haoran. This film didn’t receive great criticism.

Huang Xiaoming Famous Chinese Movies/Dramas

• American Dreams in China 中国合伙人 (2013)
• Cruel Romance 锦绣缘华丽冒险 (2015)
• Xuanzang 大唐玄奘 (2016)

Famous Chinese Actors || Chen Kun 陈坤

Chen Kun is a well-known Chinese actor and singer.

Chen started off singing when he was young and trying to earn money part-time in a nightclub, his vocal coach noticed his talent and encouraged him to apply to the Beijing Film Academy.

From humble beginnings, he rose up to win the Hundred Flowers Award for Best Actor and received a Golden Horse Award nomination for Best Actor.

DID YOU KNOW || He’s also a well-renowned author!

His golden years were perhaps around 2017 when Forbes 100 Chinese Celebrities list ranked him at 15th – his highest rank although he has been featured a few times in the top 100 list.

Who knows, in the future, he might get into the top 10 Chinese celebrities!

1996

Joins Beijing Film Academy.

2001

He stars in his first television drama Love in Shanghai where he is first recognised domestically, then rising up globally after his 2002 role in the Franco-Chinese film Balzac and the Little Chinese Seamstress 巴尔扎克与小裁缝.

2010

In 2009 he played a role in the patriotic film The Founding of a Republic alongside Ge You and established his own agency called K Pictures in 2010, as well as setting up his own charity.

In this year, he also acted in Let the Bullets Fly with actor Jiang Wen.

Between the years 2005 and 2016 he plays various roles in films for which he also wins a multitude of awards, including Best Actor at the Shanghai Film Critics Awards.

During this time, The Knot 雲水謠 (2006) was arguably one of his biggest films which brought him fame – and also more awards and nominations.

2011

His first book was published in 2011 (Suddenly Walked to Tibet (突然就走到了西藏) after which he wrote multiple further books.

2021

He continues to act in both films and TV series today, as well as producing music too.

His most recent film is the 2021 The Yinyang Master 侍神令.

Chen Kun Famous Chinese Movies/Dramas

• Painted Skin 畫心 (2008)
• The Story of a Noble Family 金粉世家 (2003)
• The Knot 雲水謠 (2006)

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Famous Chinese Actors || Wu Jing 吴京

As someone to rank as FIRST in Forbes’ Top 100 Chinese Celebrities list in 2019, Wu Jing (or Jacky Wu, as he is otherwise known in English) is a famous Chinese actor you have to know…

He’s most famous for his appearances in martial arts films, but has also acted in a variety of other films and to grossing box office hits in China.

Aside from acting in films, he’s also had a hand in directing and playing a role in various drama/series (especially Wuxia/martial arts series).

Of course, as one of the most famous Chinese actors, he has a place in the patriotic film ‘My People, My Country’ as we have mentioned many times before in this blog.

He’s definitely a household name in terms of famous Chinese celebrities. So, let’s take a quick look at how he got there, and what Wu Jing is most famous for!

1995

It was in 1995 that Wu Jing was first spotted by a choreographer.

He then starred in his first film Tai Chi Boxer where he immediately rose to fame as a famous Chinese actor.

1996

Tai Chi Boxer, which is a Hong Kong movie, is a big hit.

After 1996, Wu Jing then stars in multiple Wu Xia TV series including The New Shaolin Temple and Legend of Dagger Li.

2000 Onwards

It’s not until the post-2000s that Wu Jing stars in his second and additional films.

His second film is called The Legend of Zu (2001) then Drunken Monkey (2003) and since then he continues to appear in various Hong Kong films.

2008

In 2008, Wu Jing directed his first film; Legendary Assassin.

In this year, he also made his debut in the USA as he starred in the third The Mummy film.

2017

Since then, he also directed and starred in the action film Wolf Warrior and Wolf Warrior 2.

Wolf Warrior 2 (2017) was a big hit and became the highest-grossing film in China.

So, he must be doing something right as a director and actor!

2019

In 2019, Wu Jing’s arguably most famous film was released.

Called Wandering Earth, this science fiction film almost fell through due to a lack of funds.

In the end, Wu Jing himself invested.

I’m sure this stands under one of his best decisions ever since to say the film was very well received would be an understatement.

It quickly became China’s third top-grossing film, the highest-grossing film of 2019 worldwide, and the second-ever highest-grossing film not in English.

Wu Jing Famous Chinese Movies

• The Wandering Earth 流浪地球 (2019)
• The Breakup Guru 分手大师 (2014)
• The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor 木乃伊 3: 龍的詛咒 (2008)

Famous Chinese Actors || Ren Jialun 任嘉伦

Also known by the name Ren Guochao (which is actually his real name), Ren Jialun has slowly crept up to fame in recent years.

Ren Jialun is a famous Chinese actor most famous for appearances in TV series and dramas. originally a table tennis star training amongst the best, he had to quit due to injury when he was much younger.

He then went to work in an airport and practised dancing and singing in his free time.

In the end, after training and taking part in various competitions, he could finally quit his airport job, and pursue his dream and become a famous Chinese actor!

With his typical handsome Chinese actor drama/boy band appearance, it’s no wonder he was once supposed to debut in a Chinese/South Korean boy band.

For whatever reason, that wasn’t meant to be. Originally set to debut in 2014, instead, he debuted in his first drama series.

Since 2014, Ren Jialun has been pretty busy starring and also singing for various Chinese dramas. Let’s take a look!

2014

Starred in his first drama Detective Dee which then didn’t air until 2017 as it was delayed.

2017

A big year for Ren Jialun as his first series came out (Detective Dee) but also the drama that would rise him to fame.

His part in The Glory of Tang Dynasty (2017) moved audiences and even won him Best Actor award at the 4th Hengdian Film and TV Festival of China.

From 2017, he starred in multiple Chinese dramas.

2021

2021 saw him star in a famous drama called Miss Crow with Mr. Lizard which was a big hit not only in China, but throughout Asia.

2022

In 2022, Ren Jialun starred against one of China’s most famous Chinese actresses Dilraba Dilmurat in the drama The Blue Whisper as well as a fantasy drama Thousand Years For You.

Ren Jialun Famous Chinese Movies/Dramas

• The Blue Whisper 驭鲛记之与君初相识 . 恰似故人归 (2022)
• Miss Crow with Mr. Lizard 乌鸦小姐与蜥蜴先生 (2021)
• One and Only 周生如故 (2021)

Famous Chinese Actors || Simu Liu 刘思慕

If you’re a fan of Marvel, you probably will have at least seen Simu Liu, even if you don’t know who he is.

He played in the 2021 Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings Marvel film.

In 2022, he was named as one of the top 100 most influential people by Time magazine.

He’s also received a bunch of awards and nominations…

But before 2021 and 2022, Simu Liu rose to fame with various films. Not only acting, but he’s also an author, filmmaker, producer, and a stuntman.

Younger Years

Simu Liu grew up in Harbin with his grandparents in simple conditions. His father studied abroad in the US and his mother worked in Beijing.

Eventually, his parents emigrated with him to Canada. From then, Simu Liu grew up in Ontario, Canada.

Originally born to what he has described as ‘tiger parents’ who were aerospace engineers and who pushed him to work hard and get a good job, he worked in accounting.

This didn’t last long however as he was laid off after some months. It was at this time that Liu decided to pursue his acting and stuntman career.

2012

He started his acting career simply as a stuntman and acted in minor roles as an extra.

2015

He gained his first significant role in 2015 in the series Kim’s Convenience.

From this year onwards, he stars in various series as well as films that receive positive feedback.

He has also been nominated for/won various awards including award for Best Comedy Series in 2018 for Kim’s Convenience at the 2018 Canadian Screen Awards as well as nominated for a Canadian Screen Award in 2017 for Blood and Water.

2022

In 2022, he released his memoirs We Were Dreamers.

2023

He is set to have a role in the Barbie film set to come out in 2023.

Simu Liu 刘思慕 Famous Movies/Series

• Taken (series) 2017
• Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings (2021)
• Slasher (series) 2016

Famous Chinese Actors || Zhang Han 张翰

Famous Chinese actor Zhang Han has had continued success since his debut in the 2009 Meteor Shower series, starring in both Korean and Chinese series, as well as Chinese films.

He’s not only an actor but also a singer, director, screenwriter, and a popular host.

Let’s take a further look into the life and rise to be one of the most famous Chinese actors for Zhang Han.

2003-2007

Attended then graduated from the Central Academy of Drama.

2009

Debut series Meteor Shower is released. Shortly followed by Meteor Shower 2 in 2010.

2011

Zhang Han hosted Hunan Weishi (Hunan TV) Great Sunday with Meteor Shower series.

2012-2016

Between 2012 and 2016, Zhang Han starred in various roles in various dramas and series.

Although he is usually typecast in cheery light-hearted roles, he has also played more serious roles in, for example, Wuxia (Chinese martial arts) drama The Four (2015).

2017

Zhang Han starred in his first movie role in Wolf Warriors 2 alongside famous Chinese actor Wu Jing (above).

2022

Zhang Han produced and was the screenwriter for the drama series Gentlemen of East 8th. He also starred in this drama.

Zhang Han 张翰 Famous Chinese Movies / Series

• Wolf Warriors 2 战狼2 (2017)
• Here to Heart 温暖的弦 (2018)
• The Four 少年四大名捕 (2015)

Famous Chinese Actors || Cheng Yi 成毅

One of the youngest and 90s kids on our list, Cheng Yi is a rising star, famous both for singing and acting.

Noticed by various brands including Olay and Nestle, he has been a brand ambassador for them since 2020.

Cheng Yi’s career started over 10 years ago when he played his first role in the series Beauty World.

At this time, he hadn’t even graduated college. In 2012 he graduated from Central Academy of Drama.

2016

Starred in famous drama Noble Aspirations. This helped him to win the “Newcomer” Award category at the 7th Donews Award in Beijing.

2017

Cheng Yi makes his music debut in 2017 with the single Goodbye to the Past.

He since continues to produce music as well as act in various films/series.

Cheng Yi 成毅 Famous Chinese Movies/Dramas

• Impossible 不可思异 (2015)
• Haunting Love 詭愛 (2011)
• Love and Redemption 琉璃 (2020)

BONUS || Hong Kong Actors

In this bonus section, we cover the top names of key Chinese actors we missed above.

We’re going to cover everyone’s favourite actors from Hong Kong.

DID YOU KNOW || Hong Kong actors actually sit at the top of the most famous Chinese actors of all time! 

Let’s go over the top 10 famous Chinese actors from Hong Kong.

Unlike the above Chinese actors list from mainland China, you’re almost certainly likely to have heard of or recognise at least *one* of these famous Chinese actors from Hong Kong.

1. Jackie Chan 

2. Bruce Lee

3. Tony Leung

4. Chow Yun-Fat

5. Tzi Ma

6. Stephen Chow

7. Donnie Yen

8. Andy Eau

9. Leslie Cheung 

10. Anthony Wong

Of course Jackie Chan would be the most famous actor from Hong Kong of the lot.

With a glittering movie reel, he is known across all four corners of the planet.

You’ll have seen Jackie Chan in:

• Rush Hour
• The Karate Kid
• Shanghai Knights
• New Police Story

… and a whole lot more. Out of everyone on the list, Chan would probably be the most well known of all.

FUN FACT || In 2015 Forbes estimated his net worth to be $350 million, and as of 2016, he was the second-highest-paid actor in the world.

However, you’ll probably be familiar with the 2nd name on the list too.

The late, and incredible Bruce Lee. Sadly Lee passed away far too early, at the age of just 32, but in that time he left an impact on the movie industry that is still felt today.

With a Chinese name 李振藩, Lee was actually born in San Francisco and starred in a whole host of award winning films including:

• Fist of Fury
• Enter the Dragon (released posthumously)
• The Way of the Dragon

… and many more.

Do you know much about the other 8 Hong Kong actors on the list? Drop us a comment below and tell us who your favourite is.

That concludes our list of 30 of the most famous and influential actors in China and Hong Kong.

Now it’s time for you to decide who your favourite is by binging on the films and series we listed above!

BONUS || Can’t get enough and want more? Why not check out our list of top 20 Chinese actresses and our favourite Russian actors and actresses whilst you’re here?

Chinese Actors || FAQs

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